Diagnosis

At the Henry Ford IBD Center, we offer diagnostic tests for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, the two conditions that comprise inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). These diagnostic procedures, such as endoscopy, colonoscopy, small bowel endoscopy, video capsule endoscopy and CT and MR enterography require specialized training and technology, and are not widely available. All are minimally invasive techniques that provide doctors with detailed information about the location and severity of your inflammation.

Diagnosing IBD at Henry Ford

Our doctors, surgeons and radiologists have the most advanced and minimally invasive tools at their fingertips, providing you with an accurate understanding of your condition. Together, you and your doctor will review the results of your tests to develop the treatment plan that is best for you. During your visit, multiple specialists will be available to you.

Diagnostic tests for your IBD may include:

Blood and stool tests - samples are taken to check for evidence of infections, anemia, inflammation or malnutrition

Small bowel endoscopy - a procedure to examine your small intestine using a thin, long, flexible tube that has a light source and a video camera at one end

Colonoscopy - a type of endoscopy that examines your colon

Video capsule endoscopy- a painless procedure that uses a tiny “pill” camera to take pictures as it travels the digestive tract

CT and MR enterography - painless imaging tests to help our radiologists see the inside of your intestine with great accuracy

Chromoendoscopy - an imaging test that uses a dye to enhance the detection of precancerous cells

Diagnosing pouchitis at Henry Ford IBD Center

If you have had ileal pouch surgery (Ileal pouch anal anastomosis) to treat your ulcerative colitis in the past and are experiencing bleeding or pain, the lining of your pouch may be inflamed. This condition is known as pouchitis. Our specialists provide an endoscopic procedure called pouchoscopy to examine the pouch and the point where it connects to the anus. Our colorectal surgeons and gastroenterologists can help you manage this condition.

Schedule Appointment Online

If you can't find a date/time that works for you please call the provider’s office. Not all appointment types at all locations are available online.

Henry Ford Health System is committed to ensuring our Deaf or hard-of-hearing patients and visitors have equal access to all services. We provide the appropriate auxiliary aids and services, including qualified sign language interpreters, TTYs and other assistive listening devices, at no cost. To request assistance, call 313-916-1896 or email CommunicationAccess@hfhs.org.